Five things to consider

Changing where and the way you live is a big decision. There’s a lot to consider. Below, we share five of the most common things that people looking to right-size their living and financial requirements need to mull over.

1. What’s ahead? We’ve spoken with many people looking to downsize who felt anxious and a degree of guilt. For some, it was a fear of change or perceived loss of status. For others, it was feeling guilty about selling the family home and leaving memories behind. The good news is that the memories come with you, but we always say to people you should only sell when you are at peace doing so. 2. Think ahead Do you see yourself living by the coast and enjoying leisurely walks along a seafront? Or are you desperate to see more of your grandchildren?

Do you want the security of a nice sum in the bank if you ever needed it? Whatever your vision for your future is, any move you make now must help you to achieve those life goals. 3. Plan ahead Planning a move takes time, requires budgeting, and there is a lot to get sorted. Once you’ve decided to sell, you need to start chipping away at all the different jobs you need to get done.

See the checklist at the end of this guide. 4. Get ahead If you are going to move, start making your life easier come moving day by decluttering as early as possible. Get your legal paperwork in order in advance and think about the effect a move will have on your finances. 5. Full steam ahead We’re not just saying it, but instructing the right estate agent can be the difference between success and failure when it comes to moving onto a new chapter in your life.

Our advice is to call three agents in to give you a valuation (sometimes known as a market appraisal).

Any valuation they give should be supported by comparable evidence. Go with the agent who you feel you can work with and who has backed up their valuation with a clear plan of how they will achieve it.

*Word of caution: Budget fee agents often provide a cheap but not so cheerful service.